Award in Felling and Processing Trees Over 380mm (formerly CS32), NPTC

This is a three-day training course for delegates who have successfully completed and passed the Award in Chainsaw Maintenance, Crosscutting and Felling Small Trees(formerly CS30 and CS31) NPTC assessments. Why choose this course?

It will cover the necessary theory and practical experience to enable felling medium sized trees over 380mm in diameter. You are required to provide your own tools and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). A full list of requirements is shown on the Course tab.

Training will take place at a felling site provided by one of the University's partner organisations. There are several such sites located across the East Midlands, all approximately one hour drive from the Brackenhurst campus. It is essential that candidates have their own transport available to travel to and from the felling site.

How will I be assessed?

This will be arranged by the local National Proficiency Tests Council (NPTC) at a mutually convenient date to you and the independent assessor. The venue for assessment is usually a felling site located within the East Midlands.

What will I learn?

You will learn how to:

• Identify the risk assessment and emergency procedures on a work site
• Select equipment required for a safe and effective felling
• Fell medium sized trees safely and accurately using an appropriate method
• Sned and de-limb medium sized trees
• Crosscut stems over guide bar length in diameter to a given specification
• Select winching equipment suitable for takedown of a medium sized tree
• Take down a hung-up medium sized tree with a winch

Equipment
You are required to provide your own tools and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as listed below.

Chainsaw
A rear-handled chainsaw is required (not top-handled) and should be well maintained. It must:

• have a maximum recommended guide bar length of 380mm (15")
• meet current Health and Safety Regulations
• be in good condition (refer to AFAG Guide 301)
• have the correct fuel / oil mix (minimum of five litres)
• have chain oil
• have a spare chain if possible.

Felling

• Wedges, including high lift wedges (minimum of two)
• Sledge hammer (minimum of seven to eight lbs)
• Hand winch, complying with PUWER 98 regulations. Recommended SWL rating not less than 1.5T
• Slings, shackles, strops etc for attachment of winch to tree(s)
• Felling lever
• Loggers tape or tape measure

Personal protective equipment

• Chainsaw boots (no spats)
• Chainsaw trousers (no damage to blocking material)
• Chainsaw gloves
• Helmet, with suitable eye and ear protection
• Hand cleaner or wet wipes
• Personal first aid kit
• Whistle